The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) continues to nurture the next generation of project leaders through its Council of Elders (COELs) mentoring initiative. From July 15 to 19, 2024, the program launched its tailored mentoring phase, targeting new and emerging leaders in R&D management.
The “One-on-One Mentoring along the Project Cycle” program distinguished itself with its comprehensive mentoring approach. From September to December 2024, it focused on developing technical, administrative, and project management skills. It covered all stages of the project cycle, from conceptualization and implementation to the pre-terminal phase. Although termed “One-on-One,” these sessions also engaged team members, fostering collective learning and addressing broader challenges.
The initiative was led by the Socio-Economics Research Division (SERD) of DOST-PCAARRD. A total of 27 mentees from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) joined the program. Additionally, staffers from other government agencies, such as the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Zamboanga Research Center (ZRC) and PCA-Albay Research Center (ARC), also participated in the activity.
The initiative featured 58 structured mentoring sessions, starting with the stakeholders’ needs assessment, followed by expert guidance through regular follow-ups to ensure project alignment. Some mentees further developed their concept notes into detailed proposals for submission to DOST-PCAARRD’s funding program in 2025.
Training leaders in R&D Management
Project leaders were carefully matched with seasoned researchers and experts based on their identified needs. These mentoring sessions spanned a wide array of fields, including crops, livestock, marine and aquatic resources, forestry, biodiversity, socio-economics, technology development, and more. This diverse expertise ensured that the mentees received targeted and quality support throughout the project cycle.
Among the highlights of the mentoring activity was the progress made on project proposals. Four proposals were developed, with plans to package them for DOST-PCAARRD funding this year. These proposals evolved from rough drafts and initial concepts into more refined and final versions, as project leaders incorporated the feedback and suggestions provided by their mentors.
Notably, the mentoring initiative covered all stages of the project cycle, ensuring that both ongoing projects and those in the early stages of proposal development were supported. Many mentees were first-time project leaders of DOST-PCAARRD-GIA projects, making this activity a valuable platform to guide them in R&D management, from concept development to execution.
The program’s success hinged on the commitment of 12 seasoned mentors. These experts shared their vast experience and offered practical advice, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Their guidance addressed mentees’ immediate project challenges while fostering long-term leadership skills. These esteemed mentors included:
- Dr. Lily Ann D. Lando (S&T Consultant)
- Dr. Eureka Teresa M. Ocampo (Director, Institute of Crop Science-UPLB)
- Dr. Ernelea P. Cao (Professor, University of the Philippines Diliman)
- Dr. Blesshe L. Querijero (former UPLB Professor)
- Dr. Marcelino U. Siladan (former DOST-PCAARRD Supervising Senior Science Research Specialist)
- Dr. Rene C. Santiago (Center Chief, National Swine and Poultry Research Development Center)
- Dr. Kevin F. Yaptenco (Professor, College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology-UPLB)
- Dr. Rodel G. Maghirang (Former Director, Institute of Plant Breeding-UPLB)
- Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon (Director, Agricultural Systems Institute-UPLB)
- Dr. Rachel June R. Gotanco (Professor, Marine Science Institute-UPD)
- Dr. Agnes C. Rola (Professor Emeritus, College of Public Affairs and Development, UPLB)
- Ms. Maria Lea H. Villavicencio (University Researcher, Institute of Plant Breeding-UPLB).
In addition to the online mentoring sessions, one mentee had the unique opportunity to meet her mentor in person and gain on-site guidance. This face-to-face interaction allowed for more specific technical advice and sector-related information, providing real-world insights that were instrumental in advancing the mentee’s current project.
Mentoring through the COELs opened up opportunities for collaboration with new projects being developed from the combined disciplines. Mentors played a key role in helping budding project leaders expand their networks, which in turn contributed to the success of their projects. This initiative is a testament that mentoring goes beyond sharing knowledge, experience, and expertise–it fosters lasting relationships and creates sustainable impacts.